The Venice Lido’s shooting range, the oldest in the world

An interesting record held by the island of Lido concerns its shooting range, the oldest “target shooting” not only in Italy but in the whole world, located along the Riviera S. Nicolò. Historical documents show that the “bressaglio” (target range) in San Nicolò on the Lido was built in 1299 under the Dogado of Pietro Gradenigo.

In the 16th century, the “bombardieri” trained at the range. These were Venetian citizens who practised with firearms, which at that time were establishing themselves as weapons for use in conflicts. Today sports shooters train here, including Cristiano Gritti, 2016 Italian champion in Fast Sport Shooting, Revolver category, group B.

The venue is open to the public on Thursdays and Saturdays from 9.00 am to 12.00 pm and 3.00 pm to 6.00 pm, and on Sundays from 9.00 am to 12.30 pm.